Beta vulgaris
Sadly, the USDA approved genetically engineered sugar beets Feb. 4, 2011
This has sent many people looking for "genetically clean" sugar beet seeds.
Sugar beets are a natural source of sugar and where most of the sugar industry derives its sugar from these days.
Beets are up to 1 foot long and can weigh from 3-5 pounds.
Seeding rates are from 10-15 lb. per acre.
That means you need to thin them to make sure they have enough room to grow.
Very frost tolerant.
Tops can grow 1-2' tall. Beet tops can be eaten, lightly grazed or fed to animals.
Learn how to make your own sugar from beets!
TIP: Remember any type of beets do not like heat. Optimum temperature is 55-80 degrees. It is very important to keep your seeds moist after you have planted and be patient. It takes two or three weeks to see sprouts.